Telstar 18 with NFC chip is official match ball in Russia

Adidas presents Ball for WM 2018 with integrated chip

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Adidas has introduced the official match ball of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, the Telstar 18. The retro look is contrasted with high-tech in the form of an NFC chip to offer customers new possibilities.

The Adidas Telstar 18 is the official match ball for the FIFA World Cup 2018.

Image credit: Adidas

With the Telstar 18, Adidas unveiled the official match ball of the 2018 World Cup in Russia on Thursday. The design of the new ball follows the tradition of the first Adidas World Cup ball - the Telstar, which was used in Mexico in 1970. Its thermally bonded, seamless surface is designed to ensure precise ball control and reduce water absorption.

In addition to maximum performance and the longest possible service life, sustainability was also taken into account in the development process, including the use of recycled materials in the packaging.

NFC chip brings additional content to customers

An innovation is an integrated NFC chip that enables fans to access personalized content via smartphone and interact with a global community.

Already in the footwear and textiles segments, Adidas recently relied on NFC chips to present customers with exclusive content and information about new products.

Roland Rommler, category director for football products at Adidas:"With the revised panel design and the integration of an NFC chip, the Telstar 18 sets new standards in terms of product innovation and design."

The Telstar 18 will celebrate its premiere at the test match between the World Cup participants Russia and Argentina on 11 November.